A complete, healthy smile is a source of confidence and essential for overall well-being. When you lose a tooth, it can affect everything from your ability to chew comfortably to how you feel about your appearance. At Premier Dental & Oral Health Group, Dr. Ron Massie and our dedicated team are committed to restoring both the function and beauty of your smile. One of the most effective solutions we offer for missing teeth is a dental bridge.
Serving the communities of Lake Ozark, Osage Beach, and Camdenton, MO, we provide personalized care to help you regain a full, vibrant smile. Let’s explore what a dental bridge is and how it can be the right choice for you.
Why Might You Need a Dental Bridge?
Several situations can lead to tooth loss. You might need a dental bridge if you have one or more missing teeth due to:
- Advanced tooth decay
- Severe gum disease
- An injury or facial trauma
- A congenital condition
Leaving a gap in your smile does more than just affect your appearance. The surrounding teeth can begin to drift into the empty space, causing a misaligned bite. This shift can lead to issues with your jaw, difficulty chewing, and even put you at higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
What is a Dental Bridge and How Does It Work?
A dental bridge does exactly what its name suggests: it “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. This dental appliance is composed of two main parts: the pontics, which are the artificial teeth that fill the gap, and the abutments, which are the supports that anchor the bridge in place.
Dr. Massie designs each bridge to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result. The prosthetic is held securely to your existing teeth on either side of the gap. These anchoring teeth, or abutments, are typically fitted with dental crowns to provide a strong and stable foundation for the bridge.
In some cases, other methods may be used to secure the bridge, depending on the location of the missing tooth and the health of the surrounding teeth. Dr. Massie will conduct a thorough examination to determine the most effective and durable method for your specific needs.
The Advantages of Choosing a Dental Bridge
Opting for a dental bridge offers numerous benefits that go beyond just aesthetics. The advantages include:
- Restoring your smile: Fills the gap left by missing teeth for a complete look.
- Improving chewing ability: Allows you to eat your favorite foods with comfort and confidence.
- Enhancing speech: Missing teeth can cause speech impediments, which a bridge can correct.
- Maintaining facial structure: Prevents the sunken-cheek look that can occur with tooth loss.
- Preventing teeth from shifting: Keeps your remaining teeth in their proper position, protecting your bite.
Find Your Smile Solution at Premier Dental
If you are struggling with the challenges of a missing tooth, you don’t have to live with the discomfort or self-consciousness any longer. Dr. Ron Massie and the team at Premier Dental & Oral Health Group in Lake Ozark, MO, are here to help you explore your options. A custom-fitted dental bridge could be the key to restoring your smile’s health, function, and beauty. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Contact Premier Dental & Oral Health Group:
573-365-0220
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
24 North Shore Dr.
Lake Ozark, Missouri
65049
